My Monthly Charity May 2008

The American Red Cross is this month’s charity. The reason I chose the Red Cross this month is due the large scale of devastation of some recent natural disasters that happened around the world including the cyclone in Myanmar, the earthquake in the Sichuan Province of China, and the string of tornadoes that have torn through parts of the US. To cover such a broad scope of natural disasters the American Red Cross is the perfect choice this month.

About the American Red Cross

“Since its founding in 1881 by visionary leader Clara Barton, the American Red Cross has been the nation’s premier emergency response organization. As part of a worldwide movement that offers neutral humanitarian care to the victims of war, the American Red Cross distinguishes itself by also aiding victims of devastating natural disasters. Over the years, the organization has expanded its services, always with the aim of preventing and relieving suffering.

Today, in addition to domestic disaster relief, the American Red Cross offers compassionate services in five other areas: community services that help the needy; support and comfort for military members and their families; the collection, processing and distribution of lifesaving blood and blood products; educational programs that promote health and safety; and international relief and development programs.” - RedCross.org/aboutus/

The Red Cross is there to help people in times of emergencies locally and around the world. The Red Cross isn’t run by the government so it works on donations and time from everyone. You can find out how you can help at RedCross.org by donating, giving blood or volunteering.

China Earthquake - May 12, 2008

In the Sichuan Province of China there was a massive earthquake that registered at 7.9 on the Richter Scale followed by a chain of after shocks. The numbers are staggering with the death toll heading toward 80,000, many still missing, and some 15 million people displaced from their homes.

Myanmar Cyclone - May 2, 2008

In Myanmar, Cyclone Nargis tore through the southern parts of Myanmar creating a path of destruction brining heavy rain, high winds, and floods destroying homes and killing thousands. I have a haunting image in my mind after watching the news of dead bodies in the fields and floating the down the river. It was like the scene in War of Worlds with Dakota Fanning when she’s near the river and all of the sudden dead bodies are flowing the down the river.

Dead are thrown into rivers as the living wait for aid - CNN.com (contains graphical content)

Tornadoes in the US

There has been a string of severe weather in the US, including tornadoes that have taken lives and affected many others. Mother’s Day weekend will be a sad memory for those who lost loved ones in those storms in Oklahoma, Missouri and Georgia. There was even one incident that the authorities stated that a mother lost her life as she covered her son up to protect him. The son survived with facial injuries. There were additional severe storms that affected other lives this month as tornado season comes to end, but hurricane season is right around the corner.

Storms Kill 22 in Midwest, Southeast - CNN.com

I will be making a donation to the American Red Cross in hopes to help out even if it’s just a little bit for the victims of these catastrophic events. Learn more on how you can help at RedCross.org or Donate Now.